I'm A Celebrity: Zara McDermott explains why she didn't fly out to support Sam Thompson

Zara McDermott has explained why she was not in Australia to support boyfriend Sam Thompson when he won I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!

The Made In Chelsea star has just been crowned King of The Jungle in the 23rd series of the ITV reality series, but his girlfriend, star of Love Island and Strictly Come Dancing was not there on the treetop bridge to greet him when he left the jungle. McDermott revealed on her Instagram Stories: "Sam thought I was still going to be in Strictly (bless him, the optimism ), so Pete [Wicks] cleared his whole diary for 2/3 weeks to be there."

After winning the show Thompson was seen being hugged and congratulated by his friend, TOWIE star Pete Wicks. McDermott competed in Strictly this year, partnered with Graziano Di Prima. They were the fifth couple to be eliminated form the BBC dance show at the end of October, but will return to dance in the live final on Saturday, 16th December.

She added: "We also have training for our final Strictly number. So it was a bit impossible to clear everything but Sam was so excited by the idea of Pete being there anyway that he was happy for me to be waiting for him back at base. I'm obviously a bit sad not to be there though. But I am throwing a huge party for all our family and friends on the final night (keeping fingers crossed he's in it!!! so I'm in charge of hosting everyone at home!"

McDermott sent Thompson a special video message when he appeared on ITV's Lorraine to discuss his victory. She said: "Sam, I just want to say I don't think the word proud cuts it anymore. The way you carried yourself in the jungle you made everyone feel so comfortable, you brought a sparkle to that camp. You are so beautifully unique. I love you so much. I cannot wait to have you back right here. Yay!"

The documentary presenter also shared a video of her reaction to learning Thompson had won I'm A Celebrity on her Instagram account, captioned: "The moment we all found out… OUR KING OF THE JUNGLE!!!!!!!"

She is wearing pyjamas and gathered in front of the television with friends and family, clutching her head in anticipation. When Thompson's name is announced by hosts Ant and Dec, McDermott leaps in the air screaming and cheering. Thompson, 31, and McDermott, 26, began dating in May 2019 and currently live together.

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Watch: Zara McDermott impersonates her Strictly partner Graziano Di Prima